How to Move to Europe from the US: A Corporate Girl’s Guide to Visas

If I see one more TikTok about "Just quitting your job and moving to Portugal on a Digital Nomad visa," I might scream (sometimes of jealousy but also...come on).

Don't get me wrong, it's a great path for freelancers. But what if you have a corporate career you’ve spent years building? What if you want to keep your trajectory, your 401k potential, and your professional network, but just do it from a flat in Dublin or Paris?

I’m Molly, a Google Strategist who moved from the US to Ireland. I didn't quit my job to travel; I brought my career with me. Here is the realistic guide to moving to Europe for ambitious women who want a job, not just a gap year.

The 3 Main Visa Routes for US Professionals

1. The Internal Company Transfer (The "Golden Ticket") This is how I did it. If you work for a multinational company (Tech, Finance, Pharma), they likely have offices in Dublin, London, or Amsterdam.

• The Pro: The company handles the legal fees and paperwork. You often keep your tenure and benefits.

• The Con: You need to be a top performer to justify the cost. (I teach exactly how to build this business case in my International Career Roadmap).

2. The Critical Skills Permit (The "Free Agent" Route) Many European countries are desperate for specific talent. In Ireland, for example, if you work in Tech, Engineering, or certain Finance roles, you can qualify for a "Critical Skills Employment Permit."

• The Strategy: You don't need a transfer. You apply directly to European companies. If they hire you, the government fast-tracks your visa because your skills are in demand.

3. The Student-to-Work Pivot If you’ve been thinking about an MBA, doing it in Europe is often cheaper than in the US.

• The Hack: Many countries (like Ireland and the UK) offer a "Graduate Visa" that allows you to stay and work for 1-2 years after graduation without needing sponsorship immediately. It’s a great foot in the door.

• Spoiler alert: This was the option I chose

Stop Guessing, Start Strategizing

Moving abroad isn't about luck. It's about paperwork and positioning. If you want to know which route is right for your specific resume, let’s chat.

Ready to make the move?

Check out my International Career Roadmap. We’ll audit your experience and find the visa path that gets you to Europe faster.